The Christians two chief lessons viz. self-denial, and self-trial. As also the privilege of…The Christians tvvo chiefe lessons viz. selfe-deniall, and selfe-tryall. As also the priviledge of…

1. We must lay down self. Act. 15.26.¹ It is a commendation to them, that they hazarded their life for Christ to do what he would with them. Act. 21.14.² He had in a readiness, not only to be bound, but to die for the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ; as who should say, What thou wilt Lord, life, or wealth, or what thou wilt, it is here, Lord take it. I will lay it down at Christs feet. Philip. 2.30. Epaphroditus was commended for that he was nigh unto death, not regarding life, but gave up himself: so must we, give up our selves, not regarding life, or any conceited excellency of wit, learning, understanding, &c. all must lie in the dust: a man must be a fool, that he may be wise. 2 Cor. 10.5.³ Casting down imaginations, and every thing that exalteth it self, and bringing into captivity every thought unto the obedience of Christ. You say, I will never bear this, Oh you must down with these, they are treasonable thoughts, & must be captivated so also our wills, they must down. God will not have you women, to take up these vain fashions, you must deny them all, Act. 9.6. saith Paul, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do: I will do any thing, I will ⟨p. 46⟩lay down any thing: you must not have your wills, but lay down all at Christs feet; and thou that wilt not lay down every lust for Christ, shalt never have him. Christ prayed, that if it were possible, that cup might pass from him, but he would have his Fathers will be done. So we must do what God will have us to do; yea, all the violent affections of the world must down. Matth. 18.9